Managing conversations about attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: Perspectives from females living with a late diagnosis

Authors

  • Chiana Khindey University of Hertfordshire, UK
  • Saskia Keville University of Hertfordshire, UK
  • Amanda Ludlow University of Hertfordshire, UK

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.7146/qhc.149815

Keywords:

ADHD, adult, communication, emotional expression, females

Abstract

Background: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) remains underidentified, under-diagnosed, and under-treated in females, possibly due to differences in the way ADHD is experienced and the ways in which healthcare professionals communicate and interact with females with ADHD. Aim: This study aimed to explore the diagnostic process and the emotional experience of living with a late diagnosis of ADHD. Methods: Semi-structured interviews of nine females, aged between 23 and 55, were analysed using a reflexive thematic analysis. Results: Analysis revealed four themes: earlier effects of undiagnosed ADHD; emotional toll of living with ADHD; navigating diagnostic processes and its aftermath; hope and support post-diagnosis. These encapsulated the prediagnosis communication difficulties and emotional toll of managing ADHD. With diagnostic criteria not always encompassing the female experience of ADHD, participants experienced difficulties initially identifying and communicating ADHD-related symptoms, alongside deficits in post-diagnostic support. Conclusions: To improve outcomes and better meet the needs of females with ADHD, consideration must be given to early markers of ADHD which encompass internal experiences of symptoms and how these might be communicated to health professionals. Conversely, professionals offering ADHD-specific postdiagnostic support and signposting ADHD female-specific support groups could enhance wellbeing for females with ADHD.

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Published

2025-01-30

How to Cite

Khindey, C., Keville, S., & Ludlow, A. (2025). Managing conversations about attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: Perspectives from females living with a late diagnosis. Qualitative Health Communication, 4(1), 54–73. https://doi.org/10.7146/qhc.149815

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